Lake Chesdin
Why Rent On Lake Chesdin
Lake Chesdin, a sprawling 3,100-acre water supply reservoir on the Chesterfield-Dinwiddie County line, is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Backed up by the Brasfield Dam since 1968, this lake offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests. For the avid angler, Lake Chesdin boasts excellent largemouth bass fishing, along with crappie, channel catfish, and recently stocked walleye and striped bass. The lake’s abundant forage base, primarily gizzard shad, ensures a thriving ecosystem for predator species.
Travelers can enjoy boating, canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing across the lake’s expansive waters. The public boat ramp and handicap-accessible fishing pier near the dam are open 24 hours, while three private marinas provide additional amenities such as concessions, rental boats, and camping facilities.
Nearby, the John J. Radcliffe Appomattox River Conservation Area offers a tranquil setting for wildlife watching and is part of Virginia’s Bird & Wildlife Trail. For family-friendly outings, the 110-acre Lake Chesdin Park features a 0.4-mile paved trail and limited parking. Historical enthusiasts can explore the surrounding areas of Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and Hopewell, which are rich in Civil War history and home to museums like the Siege Museum in Petersburg. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wellness, or family bonding, Lake Chesdin and its surroundings offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
- Surface area (mi)
- 7.83
- Max depth (ft)
- 42.98
- Elevation (ft)
- 108.27
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Jet Skiing
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Marinas on Lake Chesdin
Nearby lakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Chesdin has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in Lake Chesdin. It is unlawful to swim in the lake due to safety concerns and specific regulations prohibiting recreational activities such as swimming.
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Lake Chesdin is a popular destination for fishing and other recreational activities because it offers excellent largemouth bass fishing, as well as good crappie and channel catfish fishing. The lake is also stocked with walleye and striped bass, and it has a public boat ramp, a handicap-accessible fishing pier, and private marinas with various amenities.
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For striped bass in Lake Chesdin, Virginia, the creel limit is 4 per day in the aggregate, and there is a minimum size limit of 20 inches. Striped bass in Lake Chesdin are stocked annually, but the population is not as abundant as other fish species in the lake. Late fall surveys often struggle to find a representative sample of striped bass.
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There is no public beach at Lake Chesdin. However, the Lake Chesdin Campground & Marina has a sandy beach area for swimming and relaxation, but it is part of a private campground and marina, not a public facility. This beach is accessible to campground patrons.
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Towns near Lake Chesdin include Chester, Colonial Heights, and Petersburg, which are located in Chesterfield and Dinwiddie counties. The lake also borders areas in Amelia County, such as Amelia Court House and Jetersville. These towns are part of the larger Tri-Cities area that Lake Chesdin serves for water supply.
